Proclaiming that all employees formerly known as "E911 call-takers and dispatchers" will henceforth be recognized in all city documents, communications, and matters as "Emergency Telecommunicators and Police Dispatchers".

Proclamation Whereas: Emergency response dispatchers, heretofore referred to in the City as E911 call-takers and dispatchers, are often the first contact our residents have with emergency services; and Whereas: when an emergency occurs, such dispatchers facilitate the prompt response of police officers, firefighters and paramedics for the protection of life and preservation of property; and Whereas: advancements in technology and improvements to public safety response methods have fundamentally changed the role of emergency dispatchers, and Whereas: the recently negotiated collective bargaining agreement with the City’s emergency dispatcher union recognizes the modern role and current needs of these public safety employees; and Whereas: it is necessary, appropriate, and fitting that position titles accurately reflect the present roles and responsibilities of employees; Now therefore be it known to all those present that the Mayor of the City of Somerville respectfully proclaims all employees formerly known as “E911 call-takers and dispatchers” will henceforth be recognized in all City documents, communications, and matters as “Emergency Telecommunicators and Police Dispatchers.” Proclaimed on this 22nd day of August, 2024 by Katjana Ballantyne Mayor